The fellowship is funded by a clinical cardiac imaging research study under the direction of Daniel S. Berman, MD , Director of Cardiac Imaging. The primary focus of the research is the use of PET/CT for detection of vulnerable coronary artery plaque, using F-18 FDG and 64 slice coronary CT angiograms (CCTA). Additionally, the research study involves quantitative characterization of coronary artery plaque, and various clinically relevant projects related to improvement of or validation of coronary CCTA. The fellow participates in a variety of cardiac imaging research projects as well as in the clinical activities of the cardiac imaging section in the Department of Imaging. At least 50 percent of the fellow's time is spent in research.

The clinical part of the fellowship provides an opportunity to gain level three competencies in cardiac CT, MRI, and PET with a minimum anticipated number of cases interpreted of over 300 for each modality during training. The program provides an established lecture curriculum that covers basic and clinical science pertaining to cardiac imaging (including SPECT, PET, cardiac MRI and cardiac CT), weekly meetings for review of current cases, and a weekly research meeting, oriented around the research projects of the fellows. Since the faculty of the program are jointly appointed in the Departments of Imaging and Medicine (Division of Cardiology), the fellow has the opportunity to be a part of the fellowship program of both departments, including participation in departmental academic and clinical meetings. All non-invasive cardiac imaging with the exception of echocardiography is performed and interpreted in one center by non-invasive imaging cardiologists.

The program is part of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center, a new, state-of the-art imaging facility. Specifically dedicated to cardiac imaging are a 1.5T MRI, a 3T MRI for large animal and clinical research, Dual Source 64 slice CT, 64 slice PET/CT, and the latest in gamma camera technology-including the D-SPECT from Spectrum-Dynamics. There is also research access to a fully equipped facility for micro PET, SPECT, CT, and MRI.

Eligible candidates should have completed or be currently enrolled in a GME approved cardiology or radiology program, and prior knowledge of cardiac anatomy and physiology is a prerequisite. Proven research interest and capability is highly desirable. Candidates must meet minimum eligibility standards for employment at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (GME policy #036). Details can be obtained at the Cedars-Sinai web site.

Cedars-Sinai has clinical and research fellowships in multi-modality advanced cardiac imaging. This program is currently accepting self-funded applicants who have completed training in cardiology, radiology or nuclear medicine and who are seeking 12-24 months experience in cardiac CT, cardiac MRI and nuclear cardiology/cardiac PET. A strong interest in cardiac imaging research is required. Letters of expression of interest should be emailed to Louise Thomson, MBChB, Program Director Cardiovascular Imaging Fellowship at louise.thomson@cshs.org. Applicants will be required to provide the following documents before selection for an interview: a copy of medical school diploma or transcripts, 2 letters of recommendation, and a letter from their current program director verifying prior training and satisfactory completion of current training. Clinical fellowship applicants must hold or be eligible for a California medical license.